By Wongani Mkandawire

Nkhotakota, May 9, Mana: At least 574 households who were at risk of being affected by hunger in Nkhotakota district have received support from the Catholic Development Commission in Malawi (CADECOM) under the state of emergency response initiative.

Speaking when addressing Nkhotakota District Executive Committee (DEC) members on Wednesday on the project report, CADECOM Lilongwe archdiocese Programmes Coordinator, Charles Matewere said the initiative was implemented following the declaration by State President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera of a state of national disaster in 23 out of the 28 districts of the country.

Matewere said the money amounting to MK100,000 was given to targeted beneficiaries to cushion them from hunger as many of them did not harvest enough due to adverse weather conditions which included drought and floods.

"As a Catholic organization, we thought it wise to secure funds and help these people based on Unified Beneficiary Registry (UBR) assessment. We are looking forward to monitoring the situation in various communities where we have helped these beneficiaries to make sure that they use the money for the intended purpose" said Matewere.

He further commended the district council for enhancing good coordination when operating the initiative to make certain it is effective for all.

District Disaster and Risk Management Officer for Nkhotakota District Council, George Zibophe said as a council they are grateful for the continued effort being made to bring aid and hope to the affected families.

CADECOM implemented the cash transfer project with funding from a Scottish organization Scareful through the episcopal conference of Malawi.